In its literal sense, the statement encourages others to directly engage with one's work rather than making assumptions or criticisms without firsthand experience. It suggests that understanding comes from a direct interaction with someone’s creations or ideas.
Beyond the surface meaning, this quote also touches on the importance of empathy and open-mindedness in discussions about art and literature. By suggesting people should read his works before forming opinions, Peter Handke implies that there is often a lack of genuine engagement with artists’ perspectives and that such disengagement can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations. This perspective highlights the value of experiencing an artist's work firsthand rather than relying on secondhand accounts or preconceived notions.
Peter Handke is an Austrian novelist, playwright, poet, essayist, and filmmaker known for his innovative contributions to literature and drama. Born in 1942, he has been influential in European literature with works that often challenge conventional narrative structures and explore existential themes.
